Chelsea are reportedly considering a significant shift in their transfer strategy as they contemplate using striker Romelu Lukaku in a potential swap deal to secure the services of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. The Belgian striker, who returned to Chelsea in 2021 for a club-record fee, has struggled to find his footing at Stamford Bridge, prompting discussions about his future at the club.
Lukaku’s return to Chelsea, following a successful stint at Inter Milan, has been met with disappointment, with the 30-year-old failing to replicate his Serie A form in the Premier League. Now, with chairman Todd Boehly seeking to alleviate the club’s wage bill, Lukaku’s £325,000-per-week wages have become a burden that Chelsea is keen to offload.
According to reports, Chelsea have set Lukaku’s price tag at around £38 million for the upcoming summer transfer window. This price aligns with the valuation placed on the striker last year, indicating Chelsea’s willingness to negotiate a deal for his departure.
However, rather than offloading Lukaku in a conventional transfer, Chelsea are exploring the possibility of including him in a swap deal for Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian striker, known for his pace, power, and clinical finishing, has long been on Chelsea’s radar as a potential target.
Lukaku and Osimhen swap deal? Does it make sense?
Osimhen’s impressive performances in Serie A have caught the attention of Chelsea’s hierarchy, with the club viewing him as a suitable replacement for Lukaku. Despite Napoli’s reluctance to negotiate below Osimhen’s £113 million release clause, Chelsea remains optimistic that a swap deal involving Lukaku could entice Napoli into discussions.
For Chelsea, acquiring Osimhen would address their need for a dynamic and prolific striker, providing manager Mauricio Pochettino with a potent goal threat for the upcoming season. At 25 years old, Osimhen represents a long-term investment for Chelsea, offering both quality and potential for growth.
Furthermore, part-exchange deals, such as the proposed Lukaku-Osimhen swap, align with Chelsea’s broader strategy of offloading surplus players while simultaneously strengthening the squad. With several other players, including Raheem Sterling and Conor Gallagher, potentially facing exits from Stamford Bridge, Chelsea aims to raise £100 million through player sales by June 30 to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.
In conclusion, Chelsea’s contemplation of a Lukaku-Osimhen swap deal signifies a strategic shift in their transfer plans. By leveraging Lukaku’s value in exchange for Osimhen, Chelsea aims to address their striking deficiencies while streamlining their squad and wage bill. As negotiations progress, the footballing world eagerly awaits to see if this bold move will materialize and reshape Chelsea’s attacking lineup for the upcoming season.
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